Nepal picks an easy win over Saudi Arabia

Kathmandu/Cricnepal: Gyanendra Malla scored an unbeaten 61 runs as Nepal registered a nine wickets victory over Saudi Arabia in the ACC Trophy Elite on SUnday. With the win, Nepal has kept the semi final hopes alive.

Nepal won the toss and elected to field first at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. With the disciplined bowling attack, Nepal restricted Saudi to 131 runs in 48.2 overs.

Nepali fans supporting their country. Photo: Rupchan Budhathoki

Ifthakal Ali remained unbeaten at 28 runs being the top scorer for Saudi Arabia, while Mohammad Mohsin 27, Mohammad Nadeem 19 and Nadeem Al-Nadwi 16 were some other major contributors.

Skipper Paras Khadka and left arm spinner Basanta Regmi grabbed three wickets each while Shakti Gauchan and Bhuwan Karki shared two wickets each for Nepal.

In reply, Nepal chased the target in just 13.1 overs. Opening pair Subash Khakurel and Anil Mandal sahred a partnership of 52 runs but eventually, Mandal was bowled for 29 runs in eighth over. While Khakurel remained unbeaten at 35 runs off 31 balls. Mandal and Khakurel each hit four boundaries.

Gyanendra Malla made an destructive batting from Nepal as he quick fired a 18 ball half century. Malla remained unbeaten at 61 runs off 23 balls with thirteen fours and a six. Malla hit six consecutive fours to Mohammad Nadeem in the 10th over. Nadeem got the only wicket for Saudi Arabia.

Gyanendra Malla was adjudged as man of the match.

Nepal will now take on Honk Kong in a must win match on Tuesday at Global Cricket Academy, Dubai. The winner of the match between Nepal and Hong Kong will enter the final.